RS Components (RS), the trading brand of Electrocomponents plc (LSE:ECM), the global distributor for engineers, has augmented its growing range of USB-C solutions with Molex’s new USB-C connector and complement of cable assemblies, which targets a wide range of electronics applications in consumer markets as well as automation and control systems, automotive and telecoms and data communications sectors.

USB Type-C, or USB-C, is the next-generation USB (Universal Serial Bus) connector standard. Designed to be a multi-function device, USB-C connectors are able to perform different roles depending upon the application: they can work as standard USB connectors, allowing peripheral devices such as cameras, printers, keyboards or mice to be connected to PCs, tablets or mobile phones; and will perform as power or video connectors, also being compatible with the latest 4K Ultra-High-Definition television systems.

USB-C is expected to rapidly become as ubiquitous as the original USB standard and major computing and consumer equipment companies are currently integrating and factory-fitting USB-C interfaces into new devices and equipment. USB-C is compatible with the latest USB 3.1 protocol and transmits signals at a much higher speed than previous versions of USB. In addition, the connectors are small, lightweight and reversible, which makes them significantly easier to use.

The new Molex range includes USB-C connectors and cable assemblies that will allow USB-C devices to interface with legacy USB connectors that use USB 2.0 and USB 3.1 protocols; and, following approval, the Lightning connector used in the latest generation of Apple iPhones. The Molex USB-C products include: USB 2.0 and 3.1 cable assembly (USB-C to USB-A); USB 3.1 cable assembly (USB-C to USB-C); and right angle, PCB-mount, USB-C connector plugs and sockets.

The new Molex products augment the existing USB-C products already available from RS, which include devices from TE Connectivity and the RS Pro range. RS will continue to grow its range of USB-C products including connectors, cables, adaptors and PCB sockets.